The cliche' "you win some, you lose some" is one that I found myself thinking this week as it pertains to our sport and its subjective nature.
In one instance, a friend's horse pulled a rail in a hunter class and still won (the judge obviously missed it), and this week my horse had a beautiful trip but a hard rub over the final fence. In my case, the judge sat in her SUV on the far side of the ring, staying warm on a cold, misty day. Most likely, she didn't hear it as loudly as we did at the in-gate, and her score reflected that.
Those of us who have spent time showing have no doubt been on both sides, and sometimes you're happy and other times disappointed. This week, my friend and I were on the "up" side. Who knows what the next horse show will hold for us? But whatever happens, I know one thing: I'm grateful. I'm grateful to the person sitting in the judge's box (or vehicle) doing their best, for the horse I'm fortunate to own, and, especially at this time in the world, grateful to have the freedom to do what I love every day. We are indeed blessed.
As always,
Tricia
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Susie Schoellkopf: On Finishing an Equitation Round
Felice Singleton Hybert, a newsletter subscriber, asked: "What is the best way to finish an equitation round—a courtesy circle or just walk out of the ring?"
Judging WTF Panelist Susie Schoellkopf: I think the best way to finish an equitation round depends where the last jump is on the course. However you decide to finish, you need to be organized and workmanlike. A cantering courtesy circle is very good. Or, you can finish with a trotting circle and walk as you get to the exit.
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Once again, the Judging WTF Question of the Week had a ton of responses, and most people knew the answer: "A stock tie and pin is traditional fox hunting attire. In an emergency, the tie may be used as a bandage and the pin will secure it on an injured horse or rider."
Eric Noel asked an interesting follow-up question: "The real question is why just stock ties with pins, and not also sandwich cases and string gloves under the billets?"
We'll ask some of our Judging WTF Panelists if they know why these are only in the rules for side-saddle and no longer a part of our traditional hunter classes. We will keep you posted, and feel free to provide your own thoughts on our Facebook or Instagram pages!
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Do you have any judging questions? Hit the button and let us know!
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Julie & Tricia Out and About
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Julie's next outing will be a clinic March 19-20 at Blue Heron Equestrian Center in Poulsbo, Washington. You can find Tricia in South Carolina and next attending the Ashley Hall show, March 18-20, at Mullet Hall on John's Island.
To learn more about Tricia's and Julie's upcoming clinics and book signings, please view their calendar on judgingwtf.com and Julie's clinic schedule on maplewoodstables.com.
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Judging Hunters and Equitation WTF? - The Course
CLINICIANS JULIE WINKEL AND TRICIA BOOKER
RENO, NEVADA - SEPTEMBER 3-4, 2022
After reading the book, are you ready to put your knowledge to the test and learn even more?
Judging Hunters & Equitation WTF? - The Course is an exciting new clinic based on the recently released book of the same name by Julie Winkel and Tricia Booker. This clinic takes the mystery out of judging Hunters and Equitation and allows you to understand step-by-step the processes involved through an educational yet entertaining platform. You’ll never look at judging the same again while becoming a savvier competitor in the show ring.
This clinic, which benefits the Goodtoknow Horses 501(c)3, is open to auditors, riders, trainers, parents, judges and anyone interested in learning more about judging and the processes involved, from ethics and integrity to bookkeeping, rules and licensing.
For more information and to register, please visit: Goodtoknowhorses.org.
To book your own Judging WTF Clinic with Julie and/or Tricia, please contact us for available dates for 2022 and customized options for your specific needs (info@judgingwtf.com).
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This newsletter is based on the book Judging Hunters and Equitation WTF? (Want The Facts?) by Julie Winkel and Tricia Booker.
We're thrilled to have you join us as we spend time together talking about judging, the history of the sport, scoring, tips to improve your show ring performances, judges' pet peeves, and show ring strategies, and best of all answering your questions! Something on your mind? Email us: info@judgingwtf.com
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